Who Invented Bubble Wrap?

Bubble Wrap might be the most satisfying packing material ever—but it wasn’t invented to protect packages at all.

In 1957, two inventors, Alfred Fielding and Marc Chavannes, were actually trying to create something completely different: textured wallpaper.

Their idea was to seal two shower curtains together in a way that trapped air bubbles inside, creating a unique, cushioned surface for walls. Unfortunately… it didn’t catch on.

They then tried marketing it as greenhouse insulation—but that didn’t take off either.

It wasn’t until they realized its potential as protective packaging that everything changed. The air-filled bubbles made it perfect for cushioning fragile items during shipping.

In the 1960s, the product found its breakthrough when companies like IBM began using it to protect delicate computer equipment.

From failed wallpaper to global packaging essential, Bubble Wrap proves that sometimes the best inventions come from ideas that didn’t work the first time.

Fun Fact:

Popping Bubble Wrap is so satisfying that it’s often used as a stress reliever—and there are even apps that simulate the experience!